Is a silky smooth skater with tremendous lateral movement and acceleration. Can pinch in effectively, or roam around like a fourth forward. Owns a lot of creativity and goal-scorers' hands. Also owns leadership qualities and solid hitting skills.

Flaws:

Is a little undersized for the blueline position in the NHL, so he struggles on occasion against bigger forwards in front of his own net. Must limit his mistakes in the defensive zone in order to maximize his vast all-around potential.

Career Potential:

Outstanding offensive defenseman.

Career Honors & Awards

League

Honor

Description

NHL

Stanley Cup

2008-09 (Pittsburgh)

NHL

Second All-Star Team

2012-13

NHL

Played in the NHL YoungStars Game

2007-08

NHL

Named to play in the NHL All-Star Game

2011-12, 2010-11

QMJHL

All-Rookie Team

2004-05

Movements & Injuries

2015

1/27/2015

Missed 1 game (head injury).

1/21/2015

Head injury, day-to-day.

2014

12/12/2014

Missed 5 games (groin).

12/02/2014

Groin, injured reserve.

11/29/2014

Groin, day-to-day.

4/09/2014

Missed 26 games (heart ailment).

3/06/2014

Heart ailment, injured reserve.

1/30/2014

Heart ailment, sidelined indefinitely.

1/05/2014

Missed 10 games (upper body injury).

2013

12/16/2013

Upper body injury, injured reserve.

12/14/2013

Upper body injury, day-to-day.

10/25/2013

Missed 9 games (lower body injury).

9/30/2013

Lower body injury, injured reserve.

7/02/2013

Signed by the Pittsburgh Penguins to an eight-year contract extension.

4/23/2013

Missed 1 game (food poisoning).

4/22/2013

Food poisoning, day-to-day.

4/11/2013

Missed 6 games (lower body injury).

3/27/2013

Lower body injury, injured reserve.

3/26/2013

Missed 3 games (lower body injury).

3/25/2013

Lower body injury, injured reserve.

3/19/2013

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

2/13/2013

Missed 3 games (lower body injury).

2/10/2013

Lower body injury, injured reserve.

2/07/2013

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

1/04/2013

Signed with the SKA St. Petersburg (KHL).

2012

4/01/2012

Missed 3 games (lower body injury).

3/27/2012

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

3/15/2012

Missed 5 games (concussion).

3/03/2012

Concussion, day-to-day.

1/19/2012

Missed 21 games (concussion).

2011

12/05/2011

Concussion, injured reserve.

11/29/2011

Broken nose, day-to-day.

10/22/2011

Missed 2 games (suspended by nhl).

10/18/2011

Suspended by the NHL for two games.

2010

3/30/2010

Signed by the Pittsburgh Penguins to a four-year contract extension.

2009

11/28/2009

Missed 9 games (bruised right shoulder).

11/10/2009

Bruised right shoulder, late November.

4/25/2009

Missed 1 playoff game (undisclosed).

4/23/2009

Undisclosed, day-to-day.

1/18/2009

Missed 1 game (lower body injury).

1/16/2009

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

1/01/2009

Missed 4 games (lower body injury).

2008

12/23/2008

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

2007

11/13/2007

Recalled from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL).

10/01/2007

Assigned to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL).

5/10/2007

Re-assigned to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL).

2006

10/30/2006

Assigned to Val d'Or (QMJHL).

10/02/2006

Signed by the Pittsburgh Penguins to a three-year entry-level contract.

2005

9/18/2005

Returned to his junior team (Val d'Or-QMJHL).

Career Transactions

2005

7/30/2005

Drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 3rd round (62nd overall) in 2005.

Letang had a goal and an assist, with three shots, two penalty minutes, and a plus-two rating. He is a top-35 player.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang had a big night in his return on Tuesday, recording an assist on every single Pittsburgh goal. | 01/27/2015 9:31 PM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang had a big night in his return on Tuesday, recording an assist on every single Pittsburgh goal.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang had five assists in Pittsburgh's, 5-3, victory over Winnipeg. Three of the assists came in the third period with two of them on the power play and the last one on an empty-net goal. Letang has nine goals and 28 assists in 41 games this season.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will undergo further tests for a concussion according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. | 01/22/2015 3:24 PM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will undergo further tests for a concussion according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

The All-Star break has hit the Penguins at the right time as the team is on a four-game losing streak and superstars Letang and Evgeni Malkin both suffered injuries on Tuesday. Letang will likely not be available for Pittsburgh's first game back after the break.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will be a game-time decision for Wednesday's game versus the Blackhawks. | 01/21/2015 2:30 PM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will be a game-time decision for Wednesday's game versus the Blackhawks.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang might have suffered a concussion on a hit from Zac Rinaldo on Tuesday. He skated on Wednesday morning, but the medical staff needs to clear him. Despite maybe not playing Wednesday, this is great news considering the violence of the hit from Rinaldo.

Letang did not return. Rinaldo received a major penalty for boarding and a game misconduct. It is possible Rinaldo and Letang both miss significant time, but that is pure speculation at this point. Check back later for updates on both players.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang played extremely well on Saturday against the Blue Jackets.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang scored two goals and finished plus-three. His first goal came on a beautiful two-on-one opportunity with the Penguins short handed. Craig Adams chipped the puck to himself off the boards, which started the break and then found Letang in front of the net. Letang faked the forehand shot and quickly flipped a backhanded shot over Sergei Bobrovsky's gove. Letang's second goal tied the game at three with 10 seconds left in regulation. The defenseman also scored in the shoootout, but Pittsburgh lost, 4-3.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang played extremely well on Saturday against the Blue Jackets.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang scored two goals and finished plus-three. His first goal came on a beautiful two-on-one opportunity with the Penguins short handed. Craig Adams chipped the puck to himself off the boards, which started the break and then found Letang in front of the net. Letang faked the forehand shot and quickly flipped a backhanded shot over Sergei Bobrovsky's glove. Letang's second goal tied the game at three with 10 seconds left in regulation. The defenseman also scored in the shoootout, but Pittsburgh lost, 4-3.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang scored his fifth goal of the season during Friday's victory against the Flames. | 12/12/2014 9:40 PM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang scored his fifth goal of the season during Friday's victory against the Flames.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang now has 19 points through 23 games, and should be active in all lineups.

Letang has missed the last two games with a groin injury. He has four goals and 14 assists this season. Letang should be properly stored in the injured reserve spot.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang did not play on Saturday due to a minor lower body injury. | 11/30/2014 10:52 AM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang did not play on Saturday due to a minor lower body injury.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang suffered the injury on Friday when a Hurricanes player fell on him. Coach Mike Johnston does not consider the injury to be serious.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang exited Monday's game and went into the locker room during the first period. UPDATE: Letang returned to the ice early in the second period. | 11/11/2014 8:28 PM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang exited Monday's game and went into the locker room during the first period. UPDATE: Letang returned to the ice early in the second period.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang had a big collison with a Rangers player and looked to be experiencing some pain in his leg. Nothing has been confirmed yet, but Letang has not returned to the ice since the hit. Stay posted for updates.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang exited Monday's game and went into the locker room during the first period. | 11/11/2014 7:43 PM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang exited Monday's game and went into the locker room during the first period.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang had a big collison with a Rangers player and looked to be experiencing some pain in his leg. Nothing has been confirmed yet, but Letang has not returned to the ice since the hit. Stay posted for updates.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang exited Monday's game and went into the locker room during the first period. | 11/11/2014 7:42 PM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang exited Monday's game and went into the locker room during the first period.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang had a big collison with a Rangers player and looked to be experiencing some pain in his leg. Nothing has been confirmed yet, but Letang has not returned to the ice since the hit. Stay posted for updates.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang had a big night in Saturday's victory over Buffalo.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

He had two goals, two assists, five shots on goal, and a +3 rating on the night. Solid performance from Letang.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will be back at full strength in 2014-2015. | 10/01/2014 11:40 AM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will be back at full strength in 2014-2015.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang missed significant time last season after suffering a stroke in January, but he returned for the playoffs. Letang is one of the best offensive defenseman in the league, and even with the addition of Christian Ehrhoff, who could take some time away from Letang on the power play, Letang is a top-15 defenseman.

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will be back at full strength in 2014-2015. | 10/01/2014 11:40 AM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang will be back at full strength in 2014-2015.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Letang missed significant time last season after suffering a stroke in January, but he returned for the playoffs. Letang is one of the best offensive defenseman in the league, and even with the addition of Christian Ehrhoff, who could take some time away from Letang on the power play, Letang is a top-15 defenseman.

Kris Letang is not available in trade talks | 06/29/2014 12:14 AM

News

Kris Letang is not being made available in trade discussions.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

General manager Jim Rutherford reiterated that he has no desire to move someone he considers the anchor for the defense corps. The 27-year-old is set to start the first season of his eight-year, $58 million contract. Letang recorded 22 points in 37 games last season.

Kris Letang in good books of new Pens' GM | 06/07/2014 10:38 AM

News

New Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Jim Rutherford is adamant that he is not eager to part with defenseman Kris Letang, whose $7.25 million cap hit takes effect in 2014-15.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

"I know his name gets thrown out there, people like to start rumors, but this is an extremely good player," Rutherford said. "I don't have any urgency [to deal him]."

His limited no-trade clause kicks in on July 1 along with his 8-year, $58 million contract. Pittsburgh could also use the cap space to re-sign potential unrestricted free agents like Matt Niskanen. Letang's salary and his injury concerns may make him difficult to deal, though.

Agent: No broken foot for Kris Letang | 05/20/2014 9:16 AM

News

Kris Letang did not suffer a broken foot during the second round of the playoffs, according to his agent Kent Hughes.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

There was a report that Letang had a broken foot in addition to a broken hand, but that apparently isn't the case. He sustained the broken hand in Game 7 against the New York Rangers.

Kris Letang suffers broken foot, hand | 05/19/2014 12:14 PM

News

Kris Letang broke his foot in Game 6 of the second round and suffered a broken hand in the following contest.

Renaud Lavoie on Twitter

Impact

Letang won't be able to workout for four weeks as a result, but he should be fine for the start of the 2014-15 campaign. Still, this just adds to the long-list of injuries that he's suffered over the last three seasons. That's got to be a concern for the Penguins as he gets ready to begin his eight-year, $58 million contract.

Kris Letang close to 100 percent | 05/05/2014 9:53 AM

News

Kris Letang is getting closer to being at 100 percent.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Letang has played in all eight playoff games after he suffered a stroke in January and missed 10 weeks of action. "I think he's really close," forward Jussi Jokinen said. "Even in Game 1 (Friday), he played great. I actually told him (Sunday) morning, 'I'm really happy - if you play like that, we are a tough team to beat.' And he played the same way (Sunday). Even better. He was fun to watch." Letang had a great game offensively Sunday with a goal and two helpers in the 3-0 Penguin win.

Letang helps Penguins defeat NYR in Game 2 | 05/04/2014 10:41 PM

News

Kris Letang had a hand in all the Penguins' goals in their 3-0 win over the Rangers in Game 2 of their second-round series.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Letang scored the team's first goal and picked up two helpers. He now has four points in the playoffs. Obviously, an engaged Letang will add another dangerous element to what can be a powerful offense, and it looks like his game is really starting to round into form. In this one, the Penguins dominated from the start, despite it only being 1-0 until 3:30 left in the game. Jussi Jokinen and Evgeni Malkin (via the empty net) potted the other goals. Malkin also had a helper. Chris Kunitz and James Neal picked up the other assists. Sidney Crosby led the way with six shots on goal.

Letang is finally looking sharp | 05/04/2014 12:35 PM

News

Kris Letang seems to have found his game.

Dave Molinari Twitter

Impact

Letang, who missed considerable time this season due to a stroke, is playing some pretty effective hockey as of late. He has replaced Paul Martin on the Pens' first power-play unit and seems to be getting back to his old self. Letang's performance will be key to the Penguins' fortunes against a tough Rangers' squad. We like the direction his game is going.

Kris Letang scores first of the playoffs | 04/27/2014 9:06 AM

News

Kris Letang's empty netter sealed the win for the Penguins on Saturday.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

It was Letang's first goal of the playoffs. He has had multiple injuries this season and suffered a stroke as well so it's certainly nice for Penguin fans to see him back on the ice and contributing.

Kris Letang disciplined by coach for mistakes | 04/19/2014 10:04 AM

News

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang made a mistake and hurt his team by slashing Blue Jackets rookie Boone Jenner in response to a hit late in the second period Wednesday in the opener of their first-round playoff series.

Columbus Dispatch

Impact

So Pittsburgh coach Dan Bylma confined Letang to the bench for nearly eight minutes after the expiration of his penalty. The Blue Jackets did not score on that power play, but Letang had two penalties, no shots and a minus-1 rating in the game. He also had a turnover that led to a short-handed goal by Derek MacKenzie that gave the Jackets a 3-1 lead earlier in the second period. The Penguins came back to win 4-3. "I think going into a series, there are certain players that you're looking to put a dent on and go after and forecheck and be physical on," Bylsma said. "Kris is one of those guys for our team. ... I didn't like the response from Kris. I think he got a message, whether it was . not playing or a nice talk. He got a message." Another might have been sent Friday, when Letang was demoted to the second power-play unit during practice. He was put on a pair with defenseman Paul Martin while Matt Niskanen and Evgeni Malkin worked the points with the first unit.

Kris Letang gets plenty of time in his return | 04/10/2014 10:48 AM

News

Kris Letang (stroke) logged 22:30 minutes in his return on Wednesday.

Penguins.nhl.com

Impact

So much for easing Letang back into the lineup. He didn't mind the playing time though. "I felt pretty good," said Letang. "I had a lot of fun. It wasn't perfect structure-wise for me. I'm just happy to be on the ice. It's something I missed a lot. I'm glad to play with this bunch of guys in this dressing room. It was fun to be a part of." Letang's doctors feel that playing hockey won't increase his risk of a having another stroke, so as long as he feels up to it, the Penguins don't have to be careful with his workload.

Kris Letang (stroke) good to return Wednesday | 04/09/2014 10:57 AM

News

Kris Letang (stroke) will return to the Penguins' lineup on Wednesday.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Letang has been practicing for about a month now. He hasn't played since Jan. 27 after suffering a stroke and the fact that he's returning before the end of the regular season is remarkable. It wouldn't be surprising if his playing time is initially limited as the team looks to get him back into the swing of things before the playoffs start.

Letang (stroke) continues to skate regularly | 04/03/2014 5:37 PM

News

Kris Letang (stroke) did some penalty killing work in Thursday's morning skate.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

He has been skating regularly with his teammates, but it's unclear if he'll be available to play this year after he had a stroke in January.

Kris Letang's return is still unknown | 03/30/2014 7:59 AM

News

Kris Letang (stroke) still has no timetable for his return.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Joe Starkey of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review said that he chatted with Letang a few days ago and Letang said that he has good days and bad days. "I can be really dizzy," Letang said about his bad days. "Sometimes I have trouble walking, like, in a straight line. ... I have some vision things. Lights would bother me, stuff like that." It does not look good for the defenseman to return this season as the Penguins will not take any chances with their best offensive defenseman.

Kris Letang practices, intends to return | 03/17/2014 5:43 PM

News

Kris Letang got back on the ice for practice Monday less than two months after having a stroke.

NHL.com

Impact

He fully intends to play again this season after that outlook appeared to be cloudy. "There's no doubt in my mind [his goal is to return his season]," Letang said. "Even the day I got the stroke, I asked the doctor when I'm going to be able to play again. So there's no doubt about it. If I'm on the ice today, it's because I want to return." Letang has been limited to 34 games this season over which he has produced 10 goals and eight assists.

Kris Letang set to practice with Pens Monday | 03/16/2014 3:25 PM

News

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced that defenseman Kris Letang will practice with the team on Monday.

Pittsburgh Penguins on Twitter

Impact

Considering that his issues stem from a stroke, it's anyone's guess how long it will take for him to make his return or play at 100 percent. No doubt about it, he could make a huge impact if he plays even close to his capabilities, however.

Penguins put Kris Letang on IR list | 03/06/2014 10:46 AM

News

Kris Letang has finally been placed on the injured reserve list.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

Letang hasn't played since Jan. 27 because he suffered a stroke. There's no timetable for his return.

Kris Letang skates for 1st time since stroke | 03/01/2014 11:20 AM

News

After Friday's practice sessions leading into Saturday night's outdoor game in Chicago, the Penguins and Blackhawks had a family skate and Kris Letang hit the ice.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

It was believed to be his first time on the ice since his Jan. 30 stroke. Pittsburgh coach Dan Bylsma called it "just a casual skate." Letang also joined his teammates for a team photo before practice.

Kris Letang's return from stroke is uncertain | 02/27/2014 2:26 PM

News

Kris Letang appears to have a long road ahead of him before he can return to the lineup from a stroke he suffered in January.

NHL.com

Impact

He isn't sure if he'll be back this season and he said for now he is simply "targeting day-by-day." He added: "I have some good days, some bad days [physically]. "I think the most difficult thing is around family, everybody is really careful. I can't even lift their luggage without having them try to help me out." He is still on blood-thinners and it hasn't been determined yet if the hole in his heart was the cause of his stroke. "Otherwise, it's been just mentally a little bit tough."

Kris Letang (stroke) sits out Weds. practice | 02/20/2014 5:16 PM

News

Kris Letang is still recovering from a stroke.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

He didn't take part in Wednesday's practice, but he watched most of the session. Letang missed five games before the Olympic break because of the ailment.

Hole in heart may be cause of Letang's stroke | 02/08/2014 11:03 AM

News

A hole in his heart known as PFO might have been responsible for Kris Letang's stroke, the Penguins say.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

PFO, or patent foramen ovale, affects 20 to 25 percent of Americans, according to doctors. Some of the holes have a flap-like opening; others do not. All babies have the hole before they are born. After birth, the hole usually closes within 72 hours, sometimes with the first breath. "But with up to a quarter of patients, the hole doesn't close," said Dr. John Girod, a cardiologist at St. Clair Hospital in Mt. Lebanon. Even when the flap remains open, "most of the time it's of no consequence," he said. It might have been of consequence for Letang, who was diagnosed with a small hole between his heart's upper (atrial) chambers, the Penguins said. The team on Friday announced that Letang suffered a stroke, perhaps as early as Jan. 30. He missed a game in Los Angeles that night and continued to feel ill, missing Saturday's game in Phoenix. A series of tests there and in Pittsburgh confirmed the stroke. Letang is expected to miss at least six weeks.

Letang wanted to share condition with public | 02/07/2014 1:06 PM

News

Kris Letang wanted to make the fact that he had a stroke public, it will encourage young or otherwise healthy people to seek medical help if they have similar symptoms.

NHL.com

Impact

It started when Letang experienced dizziness and nausea last week. It was originally believed that he had an illness, but further testing revealed that was not the case. "It obviously was a shock to get the news but I'm optimistic that I can overcome this and get back on the ice," Letang said. The hope is that with blood thinners he'll be able to make a complete recovery and even return to the Penguins' lineup in about six weeks.

Kris Letang had a stroke, sidelined six weeks | 02/07/2014 11:40 AM

News

Kris Letang's mystery illness has been revealed to have been a stroke.

Rob Rossi on Twitter

Impact

The good news is that Letang is expected to make a full recovery and even resume his NHL career in about six weeks. He'll go on blood thinners for now.

Kris Letang dealing with serious illness? | 02/07/2014 12:25 AM

News

Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review is reporting that the illness keeping Kris Letang out of the Penguins lineup is serious, though not life-threatening.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

According to Rossi, the Penguins had concerns last week that Letang's season, and possibly his career, could be in jeopardy as a result of the illness, which has not been specified. Coach Dan Bylsma indicated Thursday there would be no update on the blueliner's condition until more facts are known. We wish Letang all the best in his recovery from this mystery ailment.

Kris Letang to miss 4th straight with illness | 02/04/2014 12:53 PM

News

Kris Letang will miss at least one more game due to his illness.

Penguins.nhl.com on Twitter

Impact

Letang won't travel with the Penguins to Buffalo for Wednesday's match. That means he'll miss at least four straight contests. Beyond the fact that Letang is out Wednesday, the Penguins didn't offer any update on his condition.

Kris Letang's (illness) timeline is uncertain | 02/04/2014 8:14 AM

News

The Pittsburgh Penguins aren't sure how long Kris Letang (illness) will be sidelined.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

The fact that Letang has already missed three games over an illness is concerning. The Penguins are evaluating him further and at this point they can't rule out the possibility that this might be a long-term issue.

Kris Letang (illness) won't play Monday | 02/03/2014 11:55 AM

News

Kris Letang won't play Monday versus Ottawa because he still isn't feeling well.

Josh Yohe on Twitter

Impact

It will be the third straight game he has missed due to an illness. Letang has 10 goals and 18 points in 34 contests this season.

Kris Letang misses second game in a row | 02/02/2014 8:54 AM

News

Kris Letang missed his second straight game with an illness.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

Letang's status for Monday's game is unknown at this time. He has 10 goals and 18 points in 34 games which gives him fantasy value but he has been a big disappointment as he was likely taken in the third or fourth round of most pools this season.

Kris Letang is day-to-day with an illness | 01/31/2014 6:03 PM

News

Kris Letang probably won't play on Saturday due to an illness.

Penguins.nhl.com on Twitter

Impact

Letang was held out of Thursday's contest for the same reason. He has 10 goals and 18 points in 34 contests in 2013-14.

Kris Letang takes a maintenance day | 01/30/2014 8:29 AM

News

Kris Letang had a maintenance day on Wednesday.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

Letang still traveled with the team to Los Angeles for Thursday's contest. He has missed a significant amount of time due to injuries in 2013-14, but we wouldn't be too concerned unless Letang ends up staying off the ice Thursday morning as well.

Kris Letang has been scoring since his return | 01/11/2014 11:03 AM

News

Kris Letang has picked up a point in three straight games since returning to Pittsburgh's lineup from injury.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

He has scored in consecutive contests while being credited with eight shots and he added an assist in his previous outing. Letang was assessed a two-minute penalty for an illegal check To head against Edmonton's Mark Arcobello, which could warrant a look from the league.

Kris Letang comes back with Evgeni Malkin | 01/05/2014 1:54 PM

News

Evgeni Malkin wasn't the only Pittsburgh Penguins player of note to come back against the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday, as Kris Letang did the same.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Letang, 26, had been out since Dec. 13 with an upper-body injury. Health issues have ravaged his season, limiting him to 24 games. He hasn't been the same high-scoring defenseman when healthy, only (for him) producing 11 points and a -6 rating with 73 SOG.

Kris Letang says he is ready to return | 01/05/2014 10:03 AM

News

Kris Letang (upper body) practiced on Saturday and said afterward that he is ready to return to action.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

The Penguins play the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday at 1pm ET so get ready to activate Letang if he plays. The Penguins still have him on the injured reserve list so they will have to activate him before the game. He has six goals and 11 points in 24 games this season.

Kris Letang practices on Friday | 01/04/2014 8:24 AM

News

Kris Letang (upper body) practiced on Friday and is getting close to a return.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Letang has missed the last 10 games in this injury-prone season. He has six goals and 11 points in 24 games this season. He could return at some point next week so stay tuned.

With that in mind, Letang will miss his 10th straight game. He's one of the best offensive defensemen in the NHL, but injuries have stunted his fantasy value in recent years.

Kris Letang (UBI) appears to be on the mend | 12/30/2013 10:18 AM

News

Pittsburgh coach Dan Bylsma said Kris Letang has full mobility now in what is believed to be the defensenman's injured elbow.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

He has been skating back in Pittsburgh, while his teammates have been on the road. Letang has missed the last eight games with an "upper-body injury."

Kris Letang had surgery on elbow last week | 12/22/2013 7:58 AM

News

Kris Letang had surgery to take care of an infection in his elbow last week.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Well this is starting to make sense as he was seen with a cast above his wrist a couple of days ago and cannot practice with the team. The cast is to stop any movement in his arm that could cause the incision to open. Letang's return is unknown but he has not been placed on the long-term injured reserve list, so that is good news for now. He has six goals and 11 points in 24 games this season.

Kris Letang still not practicing for the Pens | 12/21/2013 10:15 AM

News

Kris Letang (upper body) is still not able to practice with the Penguins.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

Letang was seen with a cast or wrap above his left wrist according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He will not return until at least after the Christmas break which ends Friday. He has six goals and 11 points in an injury-filled season as he has played in only 24 games.

Kris Letang (UBI) may return after Christmas | 12/16/2013 1:39 PM

News

Kris Letang (upper body) could be ready to return after the NHL breaks for Christmas.

Pittsburgh Penguins on Twitter

Impact

He was placed on injured reserve Monday morning after missing Saturday's game. If Letang is available after Christmas then he may be back for a match against Carolina on Dec. 27.

Letang suffered the injury this past week and was a late scratch on Saturday. Letang missed the start of the season with a knee injury and this move does not help his fantasy value. Letang has six goals and 11 points in 24 games with a minus-six rating and has scored four goals on the power play.

Letang missed game with upper-body injury | 12/14/2013 11:23 PM

News

Kris Letang missed Saturday's game with an upper-body injury.

Nick Cotsonika on twitter

Impact

The defenseman was a late scratch for the Penguins' tilt against the Red Wings. Letang has six goals and 11 points on the season. He will undergo further testing tomorrow.

Kris Letang (undisclosed) won't play Saturday | 12/14/2013 7:03 PM

News

Kris Letang (undisclosed) is being listed as a late scratch Saturday night.

Dave Molinari on Twitter

Impact

He has an unspecified injury and won't play against Detroit as a result. Letang has 11 points in 24 games this season. Consider him day-to-day for now.

Kris Letang breaks out of his slump | 11/28/2013 9:55 AM

News

Kris Letang scored a goal and registered two assists in a 6-5 shootout win Wednesday.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

It brought an end to Letang's six game scoring slump. He missed the start of the season due to a knee injury and hasn't lived up to his extraordinarily high standards since returning. Wednesday's contest might mark a turning point though.

Kris Letang will play vs. Nashville | 11/15/2013 7:00 PM

News

Kris Letang, who was ill and missed Friday morning's practice, will be in the lineup for the Penguins' matchup against Nashville Friday evening.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Letang has struggled defensively this season, but his offense ranks in the elite class of fantasy defenders. Through nine games, the speedy 26 year-old has three goals and four points. Play him with confidence.

Kris Letang scores lone goal for Penguins | 11/06/2013 10:23 PM

News

Kris Letang scored the only Pittsburgh goal in a 5-1 loss to the Rangers Wednesday.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Despite having suited up for only seven contests this year, the offensive-minded defenseman has already potted three goals. Chris Kunitz and Evgeni Malkin drew assists on the marker.

Kris Letang scores first goal of season | 10/27/2013 12:01 AM

News

Kris Letang scored for Pittsburgh, which fell 4-1 to the Maple Leafs on Saturday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

It was the defenseman's first goal of the year, in his second game. Letang doesn't seem rusty offensively at all; he has eight shots over his first two contests, and he's played over 25 minutes per night. Paul Martin and Evgeni Malkin picked up assists on the goal. Martin, Malkin and Jussi Jokinen each finished a minus-three in the loss.

D Kris Letang plays plenty in return to Pens | 10/26/2013 10:19 AM

News

Defenseman Kris Letang, a key fantasy player, returned to the Pittsburgh Penguins lineup Friday night and turned in 25:32 of ice time in his season debut.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Letang missed nine games due to a lower-body injury. In the Pens' 4-3 loss to the New York Islanders Friday, Letang was a -1, blocked two shots and had three shots on the Islanders' net.

Penguins' Kris Letang ready to return Friday | 10/25/2013 11:53 AM

News

Kris Letang (knee) has been cleared to return to the Pittsburgh Penguins' lineup.

Penguins.nhl.com on Twitter

Impact

If you've been waiting patiently for Letang to make his season debut, now's the time to activate him. He has the potential to record a point-per-game and there's obviously not many defensemen you can say that about.

Kris Letang (knee) is likely to play Friday | 10/24/2013 5:39 PM

News

Kris Letang (knee) will most likely play Friday, according to coach Dan Bylsma.

Pittsburgh Penguins on Twitter

Impact

Letang hasn't played yet this season because of a knee injury. Last year, he played in 35 games and ended up tied with P.K. Subban for the lead among defensemen in points with 38. Get ready to activate him.

Letang also served on the Penguins' top power-play unit. He appears to be on course to return for Friday's game versus the New York Islanders.

Kris Letang might be back on Friday | 10/22/2013 10:46 AM

News

Kris Letang (knee) might get the green light from his doctors before Friday's game.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

Letang has missed Pittsburgh's first nine games this season. Missing the start of the season is always troubling because it means starting behind the curve, but we don't think rust will slow down Letang. He should be regarded as one of the NHL's top offensive defensemen.

Penguins say Kris Letang is 'close' to return | 10/20/2013 1:42 PM

News

The Pittsburgh Penguins provided a vague announcement that defenseman Kris Letang is "close" to return, yet the team doesn't want to rush him back.

Pittsburgh Penguins on Twitter

Impact

The Penguins play on Monday, then Friday and Saturday this week. If they decide he's that close, it might make sense to wait until the weekend, or maybe even just play him one of those two days. It's frustrating to miss out on an elite fantasy blueliner, but it sounds like he'll be back soon.

All three are getting close and do not be surprised if Letang is back in the lineup this week. He said that he could have played if it was a playoff game but the Penguins do not want to take a chance on a recurrence and are keeping him out of action just a bit longer for safety reasons.

Kris Letang treats knee injury with caution | 10/17/2013 11:16 AM

News

Kris Letang is erring on the side of caution when it comes to his knee injury.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Letang already has a few practices under his belt and seems to be at the stage now where he could play if this were the postseason. In October though, he'd rather give his knee the chance to fully recover and is consequently still day-to-day.

Kris Letang unlikely to return Tuesday | 10/15/2013 9:08 AM

News

Kris Letang (knee) participated in Monday's practice.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Letang has gotten a couple practices under his belt now, but he's still not likely to return on Tuesday. He's already missed Pittsburgh's first five games due to the injury.

Kris Letang skates & takes contact Saturday | 10/13/2013 11:20 AM

News

Kris Letang (lower body) practiced and took part in contact drills on Saturday.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

There is still no word as to when Letang will return to active duty but he is getting close. His return will reduce Matt Niskanen's fantasy value. Look for Letang to get 60-65 points in close to 75 games this season.

Letang (LBI) practices, unclear on return | 10/12/2013 11:42 AM

News

Kris Letang (lower body) skated with the Penguins on Friday, but there is no timetable for his return.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

It's certainly a good sign, though his return is not imminent. It was his first practice since Sept. 27. "(We're) probably taking a little more time precaution-wise than if this was a midseason situation," coach Dan Bylsma said. "(We'll) probably see how the next three days go . whether he's doing well, if there's a setback or not a setback."

Letang doubtful Friday after missing practice | 10/11/2013 11:00 AM

News

Kris Letang (knee) didn't participate in Thursday's morning skate.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

The good news is that he was working hard on the ice prior to the team's practice. Still, we wouldn't count on him playing in Friday's game at this point.

Kris Letang (knee) might be back Friday | 10/10/2013 9:46 AM

News

Kris Letang (knee) was on the ice for roughly 50 minutes on Wednesday.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Letang might return as early as Friday if he practices Thursday. He has missed the Pneguins' first three games of the 2013-14 campaign.

Kris Letang still hasn't resumed practices | 10/08/2013 3:12 PM

News

Kris Letang (lower body) skated on his own again on Tuesday.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

He has skated in that capacity for three days now, but there is still no timetable for his return to practice.

Kris Letang skated again for Pens on Sunday | 10/06/2013 2:27 PM

News

Pittsburgh Penguins star defenseman Kris Letang (lower-body) skated on Sunday, much like he did on Saturday.

Shelly Anderson on Twitter

Impact

There are still no specifics regarding when the Penguins expect him to return to action, but it's a positive sign that he's skating regularly. He's one of the few fantasy blueliners who can approach Erik Karlsson-type production, so it's obvious he's missed in fantasy and reality.

Kris Letang skates, no timetable for return | 10/05/2013 6:46 PM

News

Kris Letang (lower body) skated Saturday but there's no timetable for his return.

Pittsburgh Penguins on Twitter

Impact

It was his first time on the ice since going onto Pittsburgh's injured reserve list and coach Dan Bylsma said the defenseman is making good progress.

Letang is on the injured reserve list and can be activated before the Penguins' game on Oct. 8. He will, however, miss at least Pittsburgh's next two contests.

Kris Letang will miss at least two games | 10/01/2013 8:47 PM

News

Kris Letang was placed on the seven day injured reserve on Tuesday, ruling him out for at least the Penguins' first two games against New Jersey and Buffalo this week.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

Letang is eligible to return as soon as Tues. Oct. 8 against Carolina. He has not skated since suffering the lower-body injury last week.

Kris Letang is on the injured reserve list | 09/30/2013 5:26 PM

News

Kris Letang (lower body) has been placed on the injured reserve list.

Penguins.nhl.com

Impact

That's obviously not encouraging news, but the severity of his injury has still not been revealed. It would be best to continue to regard this as a day-to-day problem until more information surfaces.

Report: Kris Letang's issue not serious | 09/29/2013 7:47 PM

News

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang's lower-body injury might not be serious, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Shelly Anderson on Twitter

Impact

It's also believed that his problem could be knee-related. The Penguins blueliner has dealt with injury woes over the last couple years, so if he manages to avoid losing major time, that would be a serious boon for his team and fantasy owners alike.

Kris Letang's injury could be his knee | 09/29/2013 10:07 AM

News

The lower body injury suffered by Kris Letang could be to his knee.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

The Penguins have to be concerned as there is no timetable for his return although he is to be re-evaluated on Monday after spending the weekend with his teammates bonding in Lake Placid before returning home on Monday. If he is able to play most of the season, look for a 15 goal and 70-75 point season as the offensive defenseman quarterbacks the potent Pittsburgh power play.

Kris Letang out with lower body injury | 09/28/2013 1:49 PM

News

Kris Letang is out of action with a lower body injury.

TSN.ca

Impact

Letang will stay off the ice for the remainder of the weekend and will be re-evaluated when the Penguins return to Pittsburgh on Monday. It is not known at this time if it's a short-term or long-term injury as that may be determined when he is re-evaluated. Consider him day-to-day for now. Letang is a top-three defenseman when healthy and could get 15 goals and 70-75 points in a full season.

Kris Letang scores two goals in preseason win | 09/23/2013 10:16 PM

News

Kris Letang netted a pair of goals for the Penguins in a 3-2 preseason win over Chicago Monday.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

The goals were the first two of the preseason for the Penguins defenseman, who received shootout tallies from James Neal and Sidney Crosby. The Blackhawks countered with a pair of goals from Bryan Bickell. Nikolai Khabibulin was between the pipes for the Hawks and blocked 31 of the 33 shots he faced.

Health nut Kris Letang is hard at work | 08/22/2013 4:56 PM

News

Kris Letang has been working out hard during the off-season.

NHL.com

Impact

"I've always been a fan of workouts, nutrition, sleep, all those things that help you to be healthy," Letang told NHL.com after a workout earlier this week. "Some guys like to play golf, but [working out is] kind of my passion." This summer, Letang has been working out daily and sometimes twice a day at the Adrenaline Performance Centre with Jonathan Chaimberg, who trains NHL players and MMA athletes like UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre. He will looks he will be in terrific shape when training camp opens.

Kris Letang may see biggest boost from Martin | 08/09/2013 3:47 PM

News

Kris Letang could end up being one of the biggest beneficiaries from the Pittsburgh Penguins' hiring of Jacques Martin as an assistant coach.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Martin has a history of working with franchise defensemen and Letang is certainly being paid like one after his first Norris Trophy nomination. The Penguins also have invested heavily in your defensemen in recent years, including 2012 first-round picks Derrick Pouliot and Olli Maatta. It's an aspect of Martin's experience that coach Dan Bylsma didn't sell short. "That experience Jacques had with defensemen of that ilk. was definitely part of the conversation that last month and a half," Bylsma said.

If the Penguins choose to move him over the course of his new deal then he can pick 12 teams. It was reported that negotiations were held up because Letang wanted a verbal agreement from Pittsburgh that he would not be traded before his new contract went into effect. He will play the 2013-14 campaign under his current salary structure, which counts $3.5 million against the team's $64.3 million cap.

Penguins, Letang announce 8-year, $58M deal | 07/02/2013 5:57 PM

News

The Pittsburgh Penguins announce Kris Letang has agreed to an eight-year, $58 million contract extension.

NHL.com

Impact

The deal was reportedly close/agreed to as early as Sunday but sat unsigned as Letang apparently asked for guarantees he wouldn't be traded next summer. Letang was reportedly presented with two contracts with varying degrees of movement clauses, but it's unclear at this point whether he took the deal with the limited-movement clause or the one with the full no-movement clause. We'll update you as soon as we know more.

Pens still working to finalize Letang deal | 07/01/2013 1:36 PM

News

Kris Letang's proposed eight-year/$58 million extension with Pittsburgh is still unsigned.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

According to multiple sources, Letang wants a verbal agreement from the Penguins that they will not trade him next summer but the team isn't willing to guarantee him that request. His current contract, which does not include a limited- or no-movement clause, will expire on July 1, 2014. He has two proposals from Pittsburgh, one of which includes a limited-movement clause with a higher cash value and another with a full no-movement clause at a lower payout. The framework appears to be there but there's still some work left to do.

K. Letang close to 8-year/$58 million signing | 06/30/2013 11:23 AM

News

Kris Letang is very close to inking a eight-year/$58 million extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Pierre LeBrun on Twitter

Impact

It's worth emphasizing that the deal hasn't been officially signed, but an announcement could be imminent. Letang previously refused an eight-year/$56 million deal, so it looks like Pittsburgh didn't have to go much higher than that to lock him up. All the same, if this deal becomes official, the Penguins will have tied up over $30 million in cap space to just Letang, Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and James Neal. That's a great core to have, but it will be challenging to build a team around them with what's left.

Report: Letang and Penguins close to a deal | 06/30/2013 11:01 AM

News

Renaud Lavoie of RDS is reporting that Kris Letang and the Pittsburgh Penguins are closing in on a deal.

Renaud Lavoie on Twitter

Impact

No word yet as to the length and dollar amount but Letang refused an eight-year/$56 million deal earlier in the week. A few details need to be ironed out before a deal is in place but it appears that Letang will be staying in Pittsburgh. His fantasy value is sky-high as he is a top-scoring defenseman who also gets to play alongside Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin on the power play.

Penguins aren't ready to trade Letang | 06/29/2013 11:03 PM

News

The Pittsburgh Penguins aren't ready to trade Kris Letang.

NHL.com

Impact

"I can't try to sign a guy and try to trade him at the same time. I'm going to try to sign him," Penguins GM Ray Shero said. "I've had a couple teams inquire. They read the paper. They ask to keep them in mind. I haven't explored any of that. I don't think that's productive at this point. Our goal is to sign him." The Penguins reportedly offered him an eight-year contract with an average annual cap hit of $7 million. Letang rejected it and came back with $7.75 million per season. The Penguins already have $23.2 million in cap space committed to James Neal, Evgeni Malkin, and Sidney Crosby starting in 2014-15, so giving into Letang's demands would put them in a potentially rough situation. As it is, the Penguins might run into cap problems if Letang accepts their offer.

Penguins reject Kris Letang's counteroffer | 06/29/2013 11:23 AM

News

Kris Letang proposed a deal to the Pittsburgh Penguins that would pay him an average of $7.75 million per season.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Pittsburgh rejected it, which puts them about $750,000 annually apart. Although that might not seem like a huge gap relative to the figures already being discussed, the Penguins might have been pushing their limits when they offered him $7 million per season. Although Letang might be able to find a team that can meet his demands on the free agent market, Pittsburgh already has $23.2 million in cap space tied to James Neal, Evgeni Malkin, and Sidney Crosby starting in 2014-15. To add Letang's salary to that would severely limit their options when it comes to building a core around those players. With that in mind, the Penguins are likely to seriously look at trading Letang this summer.

Pens reportedly want Staal package for Letang | 06/28/2013 10:22 AM

News

If the Pittsburgh Penguins trade Kris Letang, they want at least one NHL player under term for multiple years, a first-round draft pick and a top prospect, sources told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

That's almost the exact same package Pittsburgh received at least year's draft for Jordan Staal, who, like Letang reportedly did Thursday, rejected a long-term contract extension from the Penguins only days before the entry draft. It's unclear if Letang will be dealt, but the Tribune-Review reports the Penguins would prefer to move him to the Western Conference. The paper specifically cites the Ducks and Canucks as being the most intriguing options for Pittsburgh.

Kris Letang turns down offer of 8/56 from PIT | 06/27/2013 10:56 PM

News

Defenseman Kris Letang has reportedly turned down the Penguins most recent offer for a contract extension of $56 million over eight years.

tsn.ca

Impact

It remains to be seen whether Pittsburgh will continue to negotiate with their star blueliner or place him on the trade market. Much has been made of Letang's reported interest in Toronto as a landing spot, but that's far from a certainty considering he has no say in the matter and a number of teams would likely line up to acquire his services.

Letang says he wants to stay in Pittsburgh | 06/27/2013 11:16 AM

News

Kris Letang is focused on staying with the Pittsburgh Penguins and he hasn't requested a trade.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

He made that known to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review early Thursday morning after reports circulated Wednesday night that he may have an interest in joining the Toronto Maple Leafs if he were unable to sign an extension with the Penguins. "I'm focused on the Penguins," Letang said. "I've never thought about playing anywhere else." GM Ray Shero has also not talked with the Leafs about a possible deal, but those rumors could pick up steam if negotiations turn sour.

Report: Leafs emerge as Kris Letang suitor | 06/26/2013 11:26 PM

News

The Maple Leafs have emerged as a possible destination for Kris Letang if he cannot reach an extension with the Penguins, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Rob Rossi.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Impact

Letang's preference is to remain in Pittsburgh, but he has "grown uneasy about his standing within the organization," sources told Rossi. Letang hasn't requested a trade, but if the Penguins deal him they would want an "NHL-ready player under contract, at least one top prospect and a potential first-round pick." The rearguard, who will count $3.5 million against the cap next year, finished with 38 points this season and is easily among the best blueliners in the game, despite his playoff struggles against the Bruins. Letang's agent continues to talk with the Penguins.

Shero: Draft won't be deadline to sign Letang | 06/22/2013 5:19 PM

News

Pittsburgh GM Ray Shero isn't looking at the draft as a deadline to sign Kris Letang.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Impact

"If we go to the end of next week and he's not signed, does that mean he's traded? No," Shero said. The Penguins dealt Jordan Staal at the 2012 draft, but Shero doesn't view that as a set precedent. Shero added, "We'll continue to talk to [Letang and his agent] and hope to have a deal. I would like to keep him and extend him."